I’m taking a vacation at the end of the month and I’d like to take a short trip out of the city. Probably either labor day weekend or the weekend before. Any good ideas that are no more than a few hours drive? I’m from central Illinois originally, so I’d rather head any direction but south.
Near Madison, WI:
Depending on what you’re looking for, but the [Wisconsin Dells have waterparks and the like.
There’s lots to do in Milwaukee, like the [url=“http://mam.org/”]Milwaukee Art Museum](http://www.wisdells.com/ ) – it ain’t the Art Institute, but they do have lots of interesting stuff. And there are breweries in Milwaukee that offer tours.
How far do you want to drive? The Indiana Dunes or Door County Wisconsin would both be weekend spots.
Lake Delavan, WI - charming little town with shopping, beaches, etc. Lake Lawn Resort has been there for generations.
Galena, IL - known for its history, historical architecture, and ski and golf resorts
Volo Auto Museum, Volo IL
Three days would be better, but bicycling on the Elroy-Sparta Trail is the best. You can rent bikes at either end and arrange for a ride back to your starting point (either Elroy or Sparta). Memory serves, the trail is a bit over an hour beyond Madison.